AEP proposes to build a new substation to boost reliability
PUTNAM COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) — Appalachian Power Company said they are investing in stronger, more reliable electric service for Putnam County customers through the Estes Farm Substation Project.
All of the work is expected to take place along Teays Valley Road in Putnam County.
They said the project will be built in two stages and includes building a new substation and about 2 miles of 69-kilovolt electric transmission line.
They say stage 1 includes construction of the substation and a portion of the transmission line, with work expected to begin in early 2028 and be completed by the end of the year.
They say stage 2 includes construction of the remaining transmission line connecting to the existing Bancroft-Milton Transmission Line. That work is expected to begin in 2029 and be completed by fall 2032.
“We don’t know the cost of this project, because we’re in the early stages of this project,” Sr. Project Outreach Specialist Amanda DeHaven said. “But once we know that information, it has to be approved by the PSC in West Virginia. But all customers in the 13 states of PJM will share the cost of this.
AEP said the project will increase electric reliability as the region continues to grow and will help ensure continued reliable service for existing customers.
“Our customers in Putnam County count on us to provide reliable electric service to meet the growing demands of the community,” said George Porter, APCo spokesperson. “The Estes Farm Substation Project helps strengthen the local transmission system by connecting to the Bancroft – Milton in the best location to support long-term reliability.”
The project team invites landowners and community members to attend an open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 20 at the Valley Park Conference Center, located at 1 Valley Park Drive, in Hurricane.
They said attendees can talk to project representatives and view detailed renderings of the proposed substation and maps. There is no formal presentation, so attendees may come and go at any time during the two-hour event.
They said nearby landowners can expect to receive a packet in the mail that includes additional project details and a comment card they can return with their feedback.